Domaine Jean-Claude Bessin | Chablis

Jean-Claude Bessin's range of Chablis wines are among the most highly regarded in the region. Based in La Chapelle Vaupelteigne, north of Chablis town, Jean-Claude's first vintage was the 1992. Though trained as an architect Jean-Claude Bessin preferred to take over the vineyards of his Tremblay father-in-law who adhered to the co-operative.

From his 12 hectares he produces a Chablis Vieilles Vignes, Chablis Montmains Premier Cru, Chablis Fourchaume Premier Cru and Chablis Valmur Grand Cru which is partially barrel-fermented. 

Evolution in recent years has been towards more natural winemaking. The majority of the crop is now harvested by hand, with natural yeasts preferred for fermentation. The wines have a long élévage on fine lees, the crus being bottled after 15 to 18 months, with a proportion of barrel fermentation and maturation for the top wines.